Hurricane Harvey: Trump assures quick action to provide relief funding

Washington D.C. [U.S.A.], Aug 29 (ANI): United States President Donald Trump assured provision of quick action by the government to provide relief for the areas devastated by the Hurricane Harvey.

"I think that you're going to see very rapid action from Congress, certainly from the president . you're going to get your funding," he said at a joint press conference with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto.

"We think that Congress will feel very much the way I feel ... I think you'll be up and running very, very quickly," Trump added.

Trump also said that the federal government will do everything in power to help the people affected by the devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey.

"To the people of Texas and Louisiana, we are 100 percent with you. We're praying for you, we're working closely with your leaders and officials, and I will be visiting the impact zone tomorrow to ensure that you're receiving full support," he said.

Trump continued saying that it is the tragic time, which brings out the best in America's character and added, "We are one American family, we are hurt together and we will do it together."

"Right now the single most important thing is safety and security. Protecting the lives of our people is my highest priority. Every asset at my command is at the disposal of local officials," he said.

Expressing grief over the loss of life and property affected by the Hurricane Harvey and the catastrophic flooding, Trump said that his administration is closely coordinated with state and local authorities in Texas and Louisiana to save lives.

"We are directly working with the Texas Governor who is doing a fantastic job and his entire staff likewise. We have pledged our fist support to Texas and Louisiana to battle and recover from the devastating and historic storm, which probably have never been witnessed in the past," he said.

Earlier, Trump approved a Louisiana emergency declaration as rain and flooding from Hurricane Harvey's aftermath continued to hit the region.

This move from the President gives the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) the authorization to "coordinate all disaster relief efforts".

The White House, in a statement, said, "The President's action authorizes the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA), to coordinate all disaster relief efforts."

"This action will help to alleviate the hardship and suffering that the emergency has inflicted on the local population," added the White House

Trump had already announced a disaster proclamation for Texas, granting the state federal aid as Harvey made landfall.

At least five people have died from the storm.

The storm is Trump's first major natural disaster in office and will be the first major hurricane to hit the U.S. since 2005.

The President is closely monitoring the storm as it approached the U.S. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI